Acoustic reflex testing is one of the measurements we can use at Wigan Hearing to help assess how the hearing system responds to sound. You may see it shortened to AR or described as a stapedial reflex test.
What is an acoustic reflex?
A small muscle in the middle ear, called the stapedius, can contract in response to sufficiently loud sounds. This creates a tiny change in how the middle ear transmits sound. Acoustic reflex testing looks for that response under controlled test conditions.
How is the test carried out?
A soft probe sits in the ear canal and forms a seal, similar to the one used for tympanometry. The equipment plays a series of sounds and measures very small changes in the middle ear.
Some of the sounds can seem quite loud, although they are brief and controlled. We will explain the procedure and consider your sound tolerance, medical history and the appropriateness of testing before starting. Tell us if you have significant sound sensitivity or discomfort.
What can acoustic reflexes tell an audiologist?
The presence, absence and level of a response may contribute to our assessment of middle-ear function and parts of the auditory reflex pathway. The result is not a stand-alone diagnosis and does not simply translate into a hearing-loss percentage.
A reflex might not be recorded for several reasons, including middle-ear conditions, hearing loss and technical factors. We therefore interpret it with the ear examination, tympanometry, audiogram and other findings where appropriate.
Does everyone having a hearing test need acoustic reflexes?
No. The most useful combination of tests depends on your symptoms and the clinical question. Acoustic reflex testing may form part of a broader investigation when indicated, but it is not something we automatically carry out at every appointment.
Can I ask about acoustic reflex testing?
Yes. At Wigan Hearing in Standish, we can discuss whether acoustic reflex measurements might add useful information in your case. Contact us before booking a hearing assessment so we can establish what type of appointment would be appropriate.
Clinical reference: ASHA — Hearing Loss in Adults.